European Feather Grass

One of the most graceful of all ornamental grasses, Stipa pennata is celebrated for its incredibly long, feathery silver awns that dance elegantly in even the slightest breeze. In early summer, the upright clumps of narrow, bright green leaves are topped with these silken plumes, which catch the light beautifully. This grass is perfect for gravel gardens, Mediterranean-style schemes, or for adding movement to the middle of a sunny border. It is a cool-season grass, often starting its growth early in the spring. It requires excellent drainage and a high-light position to thrive; it will not tolerate waterlogged winter soil. Hardy to H4, it is best suited to the southern UK or sheltered gardens. It is relatively short-lived but often self-seeds gently in the right conditions. Low maintenance, it requires only the removal of old flower spikes and dead foliage in late winter or early spring.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained chalk, sand or loam.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.